We’ve seen a lot of prefab homes designed for emergency habitation, but the Nano Rescue House is one of the most thoughtful designs we’ve seen yet. Each Nano can nearly double the living space by using a drop down bed system, enabling the house to provide accommodations for up to four people in an amazing 200 square feet space. The homes come in standardized sizes so they can easily be stacked up or adjacent to each other, considerably reducing restraints that come with limited, viable land. The panelized homes take advantage of natural light, have good of shading, collect rainwater and hook directly to sewer holding tanks so there is no need for plumbing in place.

The homes are based on the Nano Home design system, which claims to be the smallest house in the world. Three models of the Rescue House are planned and are based on the same footprint, starting at a meager 7000 lbs. Being stackable up to eight high with no added support means low-rise apartment buildings can effectively be raised in very little time. This is especially interesting from a logistics point of view where certain urban areas are in need of long-term emergency housing. Assembly of the panelized system is estimated to take four days on a provided footing. A horizontal stepped-back saw tooth layout provides more natural light per unit and a semi private outdoor space.

Inside, the homes use built-in furniture and a unique bed system that drops down or can be tucked away vertically to the ceiling when not needed. Windows open at both ends to allow for good cross ventilation and natural lighting, and generous overhangs reduce cooling demands. Larger models provide extra sleeping arrangements. Because of the panelized nature of construction, deconstruction is simple and the walls and other components can be reused as a base for a permanent house.